Bringing life and breath to the world's poorest communities

What is the HPN?

The HPN is an innovative, low-cost nebulizer that does not require electricity. Nebulizers convert liquid medicine into a mist that can be inhaled deep into the lungs. The HPN is designed for use in places where electricity is not readily available. Our goal is to produce a device that will last for 10 years and cost less than $50.

How we work

Our work is guided by a preferential option for the poor in medical device development, the idea that as academics, students and human beings, we have the responsibility to put our knowledge to work on behalf of the neediest members of our global society.

Diseases we target

Nebulizers are used to diagnose and treat a number of diseases including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, tuberculosis and lower respiratory tract infections – many of which disproportionately affect the poor. Several drugs used to treat these conditions are inexpensive, but until now, the inaccessibility of nebulizer treatment has greatly limited access to cheap, effective treatments for these patients.

Our partners

The HPN has been developed in conversation with researchers and healthcare practitioners who work in places where we hope to deploy the device. The HPN Project is truly international in scope; we collaborate with partners across the globe to ensure appropriate design and facilitate future implementation.